Stratford’s first women's “netwalking” event coming this month

Sherry Kresky, owner of Inspired by Fitness and Kerry Ramsay, founder of Fresh Idea Collective are teaming up to bring networking and fitness together for a women's 'netwalking' event this month.

Fresh Idea Collective and Inspired by Fitness, two local women-owned businesses, are collaborating to offer women a chance to connect and network through light-hearted movement.

The first of its kind, the “netwalking” event will take place on Thursday, Oct. 30, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Inspired by Fitness’ new location at 400 Huron St. in Stratford.

“We're always looking for unique and engaging ways to bring women entrepreneurs together,” said Kerry Ramsay, founder of Fresh Idea Collective. “This is a great chance for the Fresh Idea Collective community to get to know a new business and to hear Sherry's story.”

The event will begin at the fitness studio, where Sherry Kresky, owner of Inspired by Fitness, will share her insights into the highs and lows of being a woman in business. This will then be followed by a guided, 30-minute walk along a safe, scenic neighbourhood route.

“This is a really great way to network with other women and also get your steps in,” said Kresky. “Sometimes it can feel intimidating to walk into a room of business owners and be expected to network; we’re taking the heat off by making this a fun and light-hearted event instead."

The fully accessible walk will take attendees around the local neighbourhood, with a brief stop in front of Avondale United Church, where a short stretch and light activity will be included, followed by a walk back to the studio.

“It’s meant to be a way to connect with each other in a new way,” said Ramsay. “We're always looking for ways to stimulate conversation and to make everyone feel welcome, whether they're an introvert, an extrovert, someone who loves networking, or someone who doesn't like networking at all. This is a chance for us to move our bodies and to get some exercise, get some steps in while networking.”

Healthy and delicious snacks from the Little Kitchen on York Street with non-alcoholic beverages provided by Pretty Gutsy, founded by Stratford-native Nedia Flis, another women-owned business.

There will be changes to win door prizes, share business cards and get to know other women in the community.

“This workshop is for women entrepreneurs, business owners and community builders who are ready to move beyond surface-level networking and create something more meaningful, more sustainable and more impactful,” said Ramsay.

To learn more or to get tickets to this event, please visit www.freshideacollective.com.